Fire and Ice: An Alaska and Hawaii Combo

As the largest city in the biggest state in the country (seriously), Anchorage offers a range of larger-than-life adventures. Tackle a section of Moose Loop, a 32-mile-long route that knits together all of the city’s favourite trails, forming the shape of a moose head. Walk, run or cycle for as long as you please to sample the scenic sights – and to potentially spot a moose. Afterwards, we recommend hopping on a trolley tour to journey through Anchorage’s past, culture and surrounding beauty alongside the stories of an Alaskan narrator.

You’re in Alaska, so it's only right that your dinner is sourced from the surrounding seas, and your local Concierge will be happy to book a table for two at one of the city’s finest restaurants. With menus boasting the likes of king crab, halibut and wild salmon, tonight serves as a tempting taster of what’s to come.

It’s time to hit the road for the first road trip of your holiday. Collect your car and begin the journey to Fairbanks, Alaska’s second-biggest city, around six hours north of Anchorage. We’ll ensure you have a built-in GPS service to help you navigate your time on the road, so forget about getting lost (and backseat driver arguments) as you cruise along Alaska’s scenic highways. After rolling into Fairbanks, check into your hotel perched on the banks of the Chena River, shake your tired legs and head out for your first Fairbanks feast.

Come snow or shine, Fairbanks has a plethora of outdoor adventures and opportunities to witness the beauty of the northern wilderness. Cast your line into the clear waters of the many lakes, rivers and streams in the Fairbanks region, and enjoy the peaceful solitude as you fish for salmon, trout or Arctic grayling. Learn about Alaska's indigenous cultures by visiting cultural sites such as the Morris Thompson Cultural and Visitors Center, where citizens help to explain the local history and points of interest, matched with some fascinating exhibits.

When evening rolls around, you might not even know it – from mid-May to mid-July, Fairbanks is blessed with 70 days of 24/7 sunshine. Even locals lose track of time, so keep an eye on your watch to ensure you don’t rock up to your evening meal at midnight.

Buckle up and set your satnavs for Denali National Park, a stunning six-million-acre stretch of wilderness two hours from Fairbank. Look out for bears, caribou, moose and wolves as you approach your cabin that overlooks the park. After settling into your room, make the most of the bar and request your favourite cocktail to sip as you explore the property, relax by the fire or stand slack-jawed on the viewing deck.

Today, you’ll discover Denali National Park by diving into its diverse landscapes. This day-long tour adventures through its boreal forests and sprawling tundra and alongside the Toklat River, all framed by the towering Mount McKinley, the highest mountain peak in North America. Take in the beautiful views of the Murie plains from Polychrome Pass, then spot the Alaska Range on the horizon as you cross the Toklat River Bridge. Get your cameras ready along the way, as it’s possible to see bighorn sheep, moose, caribou, wolves, birds of prey and even grizzly bears. In the evening, head back to your cabin to enjoy hearty Alaskan cuisine with a side of stunning views over the park.

Denali National Park is the perfect playground for adrenaline junkies, and you’ll discover why on today’s whitewater rafting experience down the Nenana River. This 11-mile journey splashes through quick currents and thrilling swirls, guided by an expert so you can enjoy the ride while soaking in the Alaskan scenery. After this three-hour adventure, it’s time to dry off and head back to your cabin for your final night in Denali National Park.

You’ve got a long day of driving ahead of you today, so fill your boots with a hearty breakfast before heading back to where your Alaskan adventure began – Anchorage. The drive is around five hours, but there are plenty of places to stop, stretch your legs and admire the scenery along the way. After arriving, park up, check in and unwind in your hotel overlooking Lake Hood.

This morning, grab a coffee and admire the planes gracefully taking off and landing on Lake Hood, the busiest seaplane base in the world. You’ll then want to pack your bags and load them into the car, as today you’re switching states and heading to Hawaii. Make your way to the airport, drop off your hire car and board the six-hour flight to Honolulu, the state’s capital on the island of Oahu. After landing, say aloha to your home for the next two nights, a resort perched on the shores of Waikiki Beach. If you’re there in time, make sure to catch the sunset on the beach. If not, you’ve always got tomorrow.

Whether you’re craving culture, adventure or relaxation, Honolulu has it all. To get your hiking fix, head to Diamond Head in the morning (to avoid the midday heat) and hike to the top for panoramic city views. For R&R without the crowds of Waikiki Beach, take a dip in the saltwater Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Lagoon, located inside the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Experience Hawaiian culture at Iolani Palace, a historic remnant of the state’s monarchy and the only official royal residence in the United States. After a busy day exploring, head back to your hotel for a beachside dinner while watching that all-important sunset alongside your loved one.

Leave one island for another and hop on a plane to Kona on Big Island, a speedy one-hour flight away. Your second hire car will be awaiting collection after you land, so jump in and begin the short journey to Waikoloa, a laid-back beach resort home to the longest white-sand beach on Big Island. Dump your bags before kicking back and relaxing at your oceanfront hotel, complete with a saltwater lagoon and lush tropical gardens.

Spend today at leisure, relaxing on the white-sand beaches and topping up on your tan. It's the perfect opportunity to take things easy, as you won’t want to be exhausted for this evening’s underwater activity – swimming alongside giant manta rays in their nocturnal habitat. You’ll set off into the offshore waters, watching a stunning sunset before jumping in to join the gentle rays as they feed on microscopic plankton. Follow your guides through the manta habitat and witness an enchanting ‘manta rave’, where bright lights attract these magnificent creatures to create a spectacle of lights, bubbles and mantas.

Spend your day the Waikoloa way and enjoy pristine beaches like Anaeho'omalu Beach (A-Bay), or delve into ancient Hawaiian culture at sites like Pu'ukohola Heiau National Historic Site. Golf enthusiasts can tee off at world-class courses such as the Waikoloa Beach Golf Course, while water enthusiasts can partake in snorkelling, diving or kayaking adventures. There are shopping and dining opportunities galore at Kings' Shops and Queens' Marketplace, offering upscale boutiques and delicious Hawaiian cuisine. Sunset cruises provide a picturesque way to end the day after you’ve worn out your feet along hiking trails like the Waikoloa Petroglyph Reserve Trail.

Set your satnavs to the south of Big Island, as today you’re off to Volcano National Park. Two active volcanoes make up this park – Kilauea and Mauna Loa (which boasts the title of the biggest volcano in the world). Your hotel is perched on the rim of Kilauea’s Halema‘uma‘u Crater, making it one of the most unique stays of your trip. Each room impresses with a view of Kilauea caldera, so settle in and admire the scenery before tucking into dinner at the hotel’s locally sourced restaurant.

Kick off your full day in Volcano National Park with a visit to the Kilauea Visitor Center to get clued up on the park's geology, history and current volcanic activity. Then, embark on a scenic drive along Crater Rim Drive, stopping at viewpoints like Jaggar Museum to witness the steaming Halema'uma'u Crater. Take a leisurely hike through the lush rainforest to Thurston Lava Tube, an otherworldly cavern formed by ancient lava flows. Afterwards, explore the Chain of Craters Road and admire the rugged volcanic landscapes. Be sure to catch the sunset at the end of the road, where you can witness the glowing lava flow meeting the ocean. Finally, conclude your day with stargazing at the Jaggar Museum or from the park's designated areas, marvelling at the night sky's brilliance above the dramatic volcanic landscape.

Rise and shine ready for a travel day, beginning with a quick drive to Hilo, 30 miles north of Volcano National Park. You’ll drop off your hire car here before boarding the 40-minute flight to Kahului, located on Maui Island. Finally, collect the third hire car of your holiday and begin the 20-minute drive to Kihei, a pretty town perched on Maui’s shimmering shores and the perfect place to relax after a long day.

This morning, you’ll take a brisk hike through Maui's lush rainforest to discover two stunning waterfalls. Cool off and take a well-deserved dip in natural pools filled with fresh water, surrounded by the beauty of the rainforest. If you’re seeking an adrenaline rush, you can safely dive from the rock formations into the waters below, adding an extra thrill to your adventure (and providing the perfect mid-air photo opportunity).

It’s your last full day in Hawaii, and there’s not a second to waste. Wake up with a morning stroll along the golden sands of Kamaole Beach Park III, perfect for swimming, snorkelling or simply soaking up the sun. Afterwards, head to Kalama Beach Park to explore its picturesque shoreline and enjoy water activities like paddleboarding or kayaking. Refuel with a delicious lunch at one of Kihei's many beachside cafes, sampling fresh seafood or Hawaiian dishes. Cap off your day with a leisurely walk along the Kihei Coastal Path, offering breathtaking coastline views. Finally, finish your evening with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, savouring the island's flavours while raising a glass to your final day in Hawaii and reminiscing over the last 18 memorable days.

It’s time to leave Hawaii with a heavy heart and happy memories. Retrace your steps (or tyre tracks) to Kahului, where you’ll part ways with your hire car and board the five-and-a-half-hour flight to Los Angeles. You’ll then transfer to your second flight, a ten-hour overnight journey all the way back to the UK.